The Seminoles (4-5, 2-4 ACC) and Demon Deacons (4-6, 2-4) are in similar spots: desperate for a win if they hope to reach a bowl game — something Florida State has done 27 consecutive seasons and Wake a school-record three in a row. Wake, riding a four-game skid, must win today and at Duke on Nov. 28 to become eligible. The problem for Wake is it has lost five games by a total of 13 points, including 30-27 in overtime to Georgia Tech last week. The Demon Deacons, led by senior quarterback Riley Skinner, left, a Jacksonville Bolles graduate, have another streak of three on the line. They've won the past three against FSU. No ACC team has beaten the Seminoles four times in a row.

Brian Landman, Times staff writer

What to watch for …

The Demon Deacons were fifth nationally in turnover margin last season (plus-17). In their 12-3 win in Tallahassee, they had five interceptions and two fumble recoveries. They haven't been nearly as opportunistic this season (minus-4). But redshirt freshman quarterback EJ Manuel is making his first start today for the Seminoles.